'No proposal made to release Imran, no pressure for his release': Khawaja Asif

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has categorically denied allegations from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) that the government offered to transfer former Prime Minister Imran Khan from Adiala Jail to Bani Gala or place him under house arrest.

Speaking at an event in Sialkot on Saturday, Asif dismissed the claims as baseless. "No such proposal has been made, nor is there any pressure for his release," he stated.

Asif clarified that the government has no involvement in decisions regarding Khan’s detention or relocation, stressing that such matters are solely within the judiciary’s jurisdiction.

The minister also accused PTI of fabricating narratives for political mileage. "These claims are entirely unfounded and are part of PTI’s ongoing attempts to mislead the public," he said.

He further added, "Imran Khan’s future will be decided by the courts, not by the government. I have no connection with the judiciary and am certainly not a fortune-teller to predict court outcomes."

Asif criticised PTI for its alleged attempts to destabilise the country, declaring that "all their efforts to harm Pakistan have failed." He expressed the government’s resolve to maintain political stability and ensure the rule of law.

The defence minister's remarks come in the wake of a statement by Imran Khan's sister, Aleema Khan, who claimed earlier this week that authorities had offered the former premier a deal to move him from Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi to his residence in Banigala.

According to Aleema, the offers were reportedly made through Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. She alleged that her brother was repeatedly asked to remain silent in exchange for the transfer but questioned how he could accept house arrest after enduring jail time.

However, both the government and PTI have denied any such offers.

Resumption of PIA's EU flights

Meanwhile talking about the resumption of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to Paris after a four-year suspension, the federal defence minister attributed the achievement to the collective efforts and prayers of overseas Pakistanis.

"PIA flights to France are only the beginning," Asif said, revealing plans to expand flight operations to include the United Kingdom, North America, and 19 cities across Europe. He emphasised the government’s commitment to improving connectivity for overseas Pakistanis, who contribute significantly to the country’s economy.

Asif’s remarks come as the government continues to face challenges on multiple fronts, including political tensions with PTI and the need to restore the country’s economic and social stability.